- Temba Bavuma’s reaction during a crucial moment in the Proteas’ Gqeberha Test victory caught viewers’ attention
- The South African captain has explained what was going through his mind as Steve Smith’s dismissal presented a huge opportunity
- Bavuma also praised the Proteas’ fightback and explained why Kagiso Rabada’s return made a difference
Source: Getty Images
Temba Bavuma has explained why he turned his back during a crucial catching opportunity involving Australia’s Steve Smith in the second Test at St George’s Park in Gqeberha. The Proteas captain said he was nervous as South Africa edged closer to securing a victory that would level the series.
The moment went viral after Matthew Breetzke attempted to position himself beneath a top-edged pull shot from Smith off Kagiso Rabada. Strong winds made the catch difficult, while Bavuma looked away rather than watching the outcome.
Source: Getty Images
Temba Bavuma explains his viral reaction
Speaking after the match, Bavuma admitted that the pressure of the situation had got to him.
“I was very nervous at that time,” the captain said, according to Fox Sports.
He explained that catching high balls at St George’s Park could be difficult, particularly when the wind was blowing strongly.
“I couldn’t see who was under the catch, so (it was) definitely not a case of me not having any faith in that individual,” Bavuma added.
He also highlighted Smith’s importance to Australia’s batting line-up and the possibility of fading light affecting the match.
“I think I kind of allowed my emotions to get the better of me there,” he said.
Proteas bounce back to level the Test series
Bavuma’s reaction came during a tense final-day passage as Australia attempted to save the match following Travis Head’s century and Scott Boland’s resistance. South Africa eventually secured an innings-and-31-run victory after recovering from a difficult position earlier in the rain-affected match.
Bavuma led the way with 179 runs, while Rabada claimed six wickets on his return from injury. Marco Jansen and Wiaan Mulder also played important roles with the ball.
Kagiso Rabada’s return boosts South Africa
Bavuma also credited Rabada with taking responsibility as South Africa’s leading fast bowler. The paceman returned after a hamstring injury and delivered crucial wickets in Gqeberha.
“KG is of massive value, right, on and off the field,” Bavuma said. “When he’s on the field, he assumes that responsibility and pressure of leading the attack.”
The captain said the team would carry its confidence into the third and final Test in Cape Town. South Africa had entered the second match trailing 1-0 after losing in Durban by 214 runs.
With the series level at 1-1, the upcoming decider gives the Proteas a chance to turn the tide against Australia.
Bavuma’s viral reaction provided a glimpse of the tension behind South Africa’s crucial victory. His explanation also shifted attention back to the team’s fightback and the challenge awaiting both sides in Cape Town.
Source: Getty Images
Australia’s selection dilemma adds pressure ahead of Cape Town Test
Briefly News previously reported that Australia are considering major selection changes after their crushing innings-and-31-run defeat to South Africa in Gqeberha on Thursday, 22 October 2026.
Captain Pat Cummins admitted that the team needed to improve, with several players facing scrutiny ahead of the decisive third Test in Cape Town.
Source: Briefly News
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